Jeff Mauro Bbq Chip Dust Recipe
There’s something magical about the smoky-sweet tang of barbecue potato chips. They’re addictive straight out of the bag, but did you know you can transform them into a powerhouse seasoning? I first saw Jeff Mauro make his famous BBQ chip dust, and I knew I had to try my own version. The result? A deeply flavorful, smoky, and slightly spicy dust that clings to whatever you sprinkle it on.
Whether I’m jazzing up chicken wings, adding oomph to grilled corn, or even seasoning a big bowl of popcorn for movie night, this BBQ chip dust is my flavor-packed sidekick. The best part? You only need a handful of ingredients and less than 20 minutes to whip up a batch.
Preparation Steps
Making this Jeff Mauro BBQ Chip Dust Recipe is quick, easy, and a little bit addictive. Here’s how I do it step-by-step:
Step 1 – Preheat and Prep
I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, I spread the BBQ potato chips in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 2 – Bake for Extra Crunch
I pop the chips in the oven for 10–12 minutes, just until they’re a little more golden and super crispy. This step really intensifies that BBQ flavor and ensures my chip dust has the perfect crunch.
Step 3 – Cool Before Grinding
Once they’re baked, I let the chips cool for a few minutes. This keeps the dust light and prevents clumping when I grind them.
Step 4 – Turn Chips into Dust
I transfer the cooled chips to my food processor and pulse until they turn into a fine powder. This is when my kitchen starts smelling like pure BBQ heaven.
Step 5 – Add the Seasoning Magic
Next, I add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, plus a pinch of salt and black pepper. I give it a few more quick pulses until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 6 – Store and Use
I pour my BBQ chip dust into an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place. It keeps beautifully for a couple of weeks, though in my house, it rarely lasts that long!
Serving Suggestions
One of my favorite things about this Jeff Mauro BBQ Chip Dust is how versatile it is. Here are some of the delicious ways I use it:
- On Grilled Meats – I sprinkle it on chicken wings, pork ribs, or steak right after grilling for a smoky-sweet punch.
- On Roasted Veggies – Tossing potatoes, corn, or zucchini with a little olive oil and this dust before roasting makes them irresistible.
- On Popcorn – Movie night just isn’t the same without BBQ popcorn in my house.
- In Sandwiches – A quick shake over pulled pork or grilled chicken sandwiches makes every bite pop.
- As a Rub – Mix the dust with a little olive oil and coat meats before grilling or baking for deeper flavor penetration.
Storage Instructions
To keep my BBQ chip dust tasting fresh and vibrant:
- I store it in an airtight jar in a cool, dry cupboard, away from heat and sunlight.
- It stays at peak flavor for up to 2 weeks, though I’ve never managed to keep a batch that long before using it up.
- If I’m making a big batch, I’ll freeze some in a small zip-top bag for up to 1 month. Just let it come to room temperature before using.

Jeff Mauro Bbq Chip Dust Recipe
Ingredients
Video
Notes
Required Kitchen Tools
Making BBQ chip dust doesn’t require fancy gadgets, but a few essentials will make the process smoother:- Baking Sheet – For crisping the chips in the oven so the dust has maximum crunch.
- Food Processor or High-Powered Blender – To grind the chips into a fine, even dust.
- Parchment Paper – Keeps the chips from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Measuring Spoons – For perfectly balanced seasoning every time.
- Airtight Container or Spice Jar – To store your chip dust and keep it fresh until your next BBQ feast.
FAQ – Jeff Mauro BBQ Chip Dust Recipe
1. What is Jeff Mauro BBQ Chip Dust?
It’s a flavorful seasoning blend made from finely ground BBQ potato chips mixed with spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. It’s inspired by Jeff Mauro’s bold barbecue flavors and can be used on meats, veggies, popcorn, and more.
2. Can I make this chip dust without a food processor?
Yes! If you don’t have a food processor, place the baked chips in a heavy-duty zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until you achieve a fine powder.
3. How spicy is this BBQ chip dust?
The spiciness depends on how much cayenne pepper you add. For a mild version, skip the cayenne altogether. For extra heat, add a bit more or mix in some chili powder.
4. How long does homemade BBQ chip dust last?
Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, it stays fresh for about 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for up to 1 month.
5. Can I use different chip flavors?
Absolutely! While BBQ chips give that classic smoky-sweet taste, you can try sour cream & onion, spicy jalapeño, or even plain salted chips for your own twist.
6. Is this seasoning gluten-free?
It can be, but it depends on the brand of BBQ chips you use. Always check the ingredient label if you need a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
This Jeff Mauro BBQ Chip Dust Recipe has completely changed the way I season my food. It’s smoky, tangy, just a little spicy, and takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish. Whether I’m firing up the grill, roasting vegetables, or just looking for a way to make popcorn exciting, this homemade chip dust never lets me down.
If you’re craving that bold BBQ flavor in every bite, grab a bag of your favorite chips and give this recipe a try. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll start looking for new dishes to sprinkle it on.

Sophia Smith is a passionate home baker and dessert enthusiast who loves sharing her favorite recipes, baking tips, and kitchen secrets. Through Roses Baking Passion, she inspires others to bake with love and creativity every day.
